China Bridge Collapse After Fireworks Explosion

A section of suspended highway collapsed today in China's central Henan province when a truck carrying fireworks exploded. As part of the bridge crumbled, cars and trucks tumbled almost 100 feet to the ground. There have been conflicting reports of casualties. China National Radio and several other medial originally said at least 26 people died. State-run Xinhua reported later that nine people were killed. At least 25 vehicles fell through the bridge. Ten trucks were found in the debris. Chinese netizens have posted images on the carnage online. The Epoch Times newspaper cited one local man who said most of the victims being uncovered by rescue teams were already dead. No one knows exactly what set the fireworks off but an investigation is underway. There are also questions over how the fireworks could be powerful enough to bring down a major bridge. The Chinese public has become weary of shoddy public construction. In 2012, this bridge in northern China collapsed only nine months after it opened. The explosion also comes at a time of debate over the the lighting of fireworks during Chinese New Year celebrations. It's a long standing tradition, but recent air quality problems have sparked calls to reconsider whether it should be banned. For more news and videos visit ☛ http://ntd.tv Follow us on Twitter ☛   / ntdtelevision   Add us on Facebook ☛ http://on.fb.me/s5KV2C